Quality of Life

An important discussion on quality of life and the disabled rabbit.

Quality of life in never an easy topic to discuss, but it is an important one. Owning a disabled rabbit means that we already have physical and oftentimes medical hurdles to face. When do these hurdles become 'too much?' How can we ensure that our rabbit is not suffering? When is it time to let go? These are incredibly difficult questions to answer. As owners, we have to look very objectively at our rabbit's quality of life and be able to assess their happiness, their lifestyle and their prospects for the future to make the best decision possible for them.

While it is hard to definitively measure a rabbit's quality of life, here are some important areas to consider:

Bonnie and her daddy have formed quite the bond.

PAIN

The first, and most important, factor to consider is whether or not your rabbit is in pain. Rabbits instinctively mask their pain as much as possible, so careful observation is important. Watch their posture and expressions. Are they hunched up and tense or are they lying down, relaxed? Does their face appear stressed and anxious or is it relaxed and calm? Other signs of pain include: fast breathing, reluctance to move, squinting of the eyes, loud grinding of the teeth, flinching when touched, withdrawal and aggression. Pain management is incredibly important. When that pain cannot be managed, though, it is important to know when their suffering reaches the point of being too much.

APPETITE

Another important consideration is your rabbit's appetite. A healthy appetite is typically synonymous with a happy rabbit. Does your rabbit still enjoy eating? Are they able to eat enough (either on their own or with your help) to stay nourished? Are they interested in food or do you have to coax or force them to eat? A rabbit that is unable to eat or unable to gain sufficient nourishment from eating does not have a very good prognosis for the future.

HYGIENE

As rabbits begin to age or when they face disabilities, hygiene concerns become very important. Especially for rabbits that become incontinent, keeping them clean is a constant concern and daily job. If they face mobility limitations, conditions like sore hocks and urine scald can become very serious. These conditions and poor hygiene in general can cause pain, deterioration of the fur and skin and infection if left untreated. Is your rabbit able to clean themselves or are you able to compensate? Is your rabbit able to live in clean living quarters? If you are unable to keep up with your rabbit's care and maintain some level of proper hygiene, you must take into account how that affects their quality of life.

MOBILITY

Rabbits thrive on being mobile and it can be hard for them to have that mobility limited or taken away completely. While some have a harder time adjusting, others are able to adapt to the change well. Is your rabbit able to move around without assistance? Do they need your help or the help of a cart or sling to move? Do they show interest in moving? Does moving cause them pain? Pay close attention to how your rabbit handles limitations in mobility and how that affects their attitude and zest for life.

HAPPINESS

Perhaps the most critical aspect of a rabbit's quality of life is their attitude and overall happiness. There are rabbits that are able to handle tremendous obstacles whilst still keeping a positive, happy outlook on life. While some are not as apt to adapt to challenges, it is important to distinguish whether or not they still draw joy from life- enough to make any struggles worth it. Does your rabbit seem content? Do they show affection to you or a companion? Are they interested in what's going on around them? Do they show curiosity for new things? Do they enjoy petting? Do they show interest in interacting with you? Do they enjoy their favorite treats or toys? Do they still like to play or cause trouble? It is important to be able to gauge whether or not your rabbit is happy with their situation in life. There will inevitably be a point where decline, whether from age, illness or disability, affects your rabbit's happiness. When they start to seem depressed, withdrawn, anxious, stressed or uninterested, it may be time to consider whether they still have a desire to go on.

Assessing quality of life is not a one-time decision; it is an ongoing process. While difficult, take some time to look at the situation as objectively as you can. Consult your veterinarian for ideas for pain management or things you can do to improve their condition or lifestyle. Ask for their opinion on your rabbit's quality of life and future. But, remember that at the end of the day the decision comes down to you, and you alone. Never feel pressured to do something that you do not feel is right. Only you know your rabbit. Only you know if they still have happiness and joy in their life and want to keep on going.

We sincerely believe that disabled rabbits can be cared for. Just be sure that when the time comes, you make sure they want to be cared for. No matter what it means for you, we must always have their best interests at heart.